Barca without Messi. 3 weeks.

A messi less barca

Messi  was in his prime form in the start of this season linking up with Neymar and Suarez and crushing the likes of leganes and celtic  but got injured at Camp Nou last Wednesday against Atletico Madrid in the 60th minute which led to the equalising goal for Atletico against within the next 2 minute. We all remember what  happened last year when Messi got injured for more than a month, Barcelona lost its total shape.This  time they are third in the Liga.

Messi  injury

At first glance it seemed that Messi faced the same pubis discomfort ailment, That  forced  him to leave international duty earlier this season  but the injury he sustained against Atletico was a new one . This means  that he will miss atleast 3 games for Barcelona and international matches for Argentina.

Replacements

Three players that come to mind are Rafinha, Arda and Paco ,While  Rafinha suits the position more, Lucho will prefer an in-form Arda. It wouldn't be a surprise if he starts the next game after getting a goal an assist against Gijon yesterday.

Also,Paco still has to find his place in the team.Pundits says 'give him some time,he will be back with goals'.More over I would be interested to see whether  the formation will be 3-4-3 or Lucho will stick with his traditional 4-3-3,well Lucho knows better. If Paco is given the chance to start, it will be a big opportunity for him as he is yet to hit the net for Barcelona.

Effect on Barcelona

Last  year they experienced  similar situation when Messi was out for two and a half month.Neymar showed his leadership in attack,so this shouldn't be much of a problem for them .

Expected starting line up:

(4-3-3)Ter stegen,Mascherano,Pique,Roberto,AlbaRakitic,Busquet,Iniesta,Suarez,Paco,Neymar.

OR.(3-4-3) Ter stegen,Mascherano,Pique,Mathieu,Alba,Busquets,Iniesta,Rakitic,Neymar,Suarez,Arda.

OR.(4-4-2) Ter Stegen,Roberto,Pique,Mascherano,Alba,Denis,Iniesta,Busquets,Rakitic,Neymar,Suarez.